knocking things out, expanding the pool, or a little bit of both

            On Thursday in Professor Grobstein’s class, we discussed science vs. literature and whether we prefer adding things to our “list” or knocking things out when it comes to making sense of the world.  After going around the room, many people said how they felt somewhat torn- enjoy the creative/literary aspect of expanding the pool, but also like that satisfactory feeling when you knock out a possibility.  I decided that even though I consider myself as more of a science person, I enjoy adding to the list because I think that tends to make things a bit more exciting.  Sometimes I feel like knocking out ideas is tedious and even though eliminating a possibility can be very beneficial, I don’t like the idea of failure or that my research did not lead to something new and positive.  I do see the value in eliminating from the pool, but I would prefer to take a less drastic measure and simply put a line through it instead of completely knocking it out.  I am the same way when it comes to my work- often feel uncomfortable erasing things because there is always that possibility that I am going to want or need it in the future. 

            This discussion reminds me of Adaptation because there are many instances when Charlie is excited and on a role with his writing but then Donald interrupts him and causes him to rethink what he is writing and start all over.  When I first watched the film, these scenes really bothered me because I was frustrated for Charlie and wanted him to finish his work without being distracted.  After our discussion, however, I realized that the real reason I was so uncomfortable during those moments in the film was because I don’t like starting over either.  I like adding things and appreciate criticism or facts to help whatever I may be working on, but I don’t like to knock things out and ignore my previous thoughts.  This process worked for Charlie too because in the end he was able to write the story he wanted and was able to include his first instincts that others caused him to second-guess.